January 23, 2026 (Nashville, Tenn.) – Talented up and coming songwriter-artist Grayson May has been selected as the 8th recipient of the annual Todd Givens Memorial Scholarship, awarded by the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) each year to honor longtime dedicated staff member, the late Todd Givens, who served the organization for 31 years prior to his passing in 2018. The annual recipient is personally chosen by organization Executive Director Bart Herbison."Grayson May is a talented songwriter whose motto: 'Country music is a way of life,' speaks volumes. The Louisiana native is an accomplished performer and writer who is making inroads into the Nashville and Music Row community. It is our pleasure to award the 2026 Todd Givens Memorial Scholarship to Grayson. He is someone you root for and his work ethic is unmatched." Bart Herbison, Executive Director, NSAI
As the scholarship winner, May will receive dedicated support throughout the year from the creative and membership team at NSAI to assist in navigating his career goals. He will also receive a complimentary NSAI membership and a premium event along with other perks.
May will formally receive this honor during the annual NSAI Member Awards, presented by Regions Bank, to be held at 3rd & Lindsley Nashville on Thursday, March 26, 2026 as part of NSAI's Tin Pan South week in Nashville, Tennessee.
About Grayson May
Nashville singer-songwriter, Grayson May, creates pure honky tonk nostalgia by combining the unique styles of Strait, Jones, and Whitley. Over the years, the Bastrop, Louisiana native has continuously kept the highway hot. He has shared the stage with acts such as Neal McCoy, Dylan Scott, Lorrie Morgan, and many more. In 2024, Grayson had the honor of winning NELA Music Awards' event of the year. Grayson builds his life around a love for family, Jesus, and the motto “no backup plan.” When these things combine, he believes anything is possible.
